Roost Count
Do you have a bat roost at or near your house?
Sign up to the survey and register your roost(s) anytime if you are interested in counting these bats. By taking part in the Roost Count, you will be helping us monitor how different bat species are faring across the UK.
The Roost Count involves doing two evening counts between 6th and 25th June and at least five days apart. The count periods are slight different if you are counting roosts of lesser horseshoe bat (29th May - 27th June) or greater horseshoe bat (7th - 21st July). The survey starts at sunset or shortly before, depending on the species.
Ideally you should start your survey preparation by May (see below for more information), but the earlier the better!
Steps you need to take for the Roost Count
Receive your survey pack in May
The pack includes survey forms and instructions to carry out this survey. The pack will be sent by email or by post depending on your preference. Please read these important health and safety documents.
Download the safety guidelines for this survey
Download the Roost Count risk assessment template
Download BCT's safeguarding policy statement
*If the roost is not on your own property then ensure you get permission from the roost owner and arrange dates on which you can carry out your surveys*.
Count bats in June*
Position yourself beneath the roost exit at around sunset, watch the exit carefully and count bats as they emerge from a roost on at least two evenings.
*Lesser horseshoe bat counts start in late May, while greater horseshoe bat counts take place in July.
Submit your counts
After completing your surveys, submit your counts online or post your completed survey form to Freepost BAT CONSERVATION.
Your online recording pages enable you to view and download all data you have submitted. Read here how we share data via the NBN Atlas.
